Chinese Currency & Payment Methods 2026: A Complete Traveler’s Guide

Written by Veronica | Updated August 14,2025

An important thing to think about while planning your first trip to China is the local currency. Whether you’re visiting for a trip or moving there to live as an expat, it’s essential to learn about the Chinese currency and payment methods. This article will be your ultimate guide to Chinese money, the currency, exchange rates, how to pay, and a list of FAQs on the subject.

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• What Is the Chinese Currency Called?
• Chinese Currency Exchange Basics
• How to Pay in China as a Tourist in 2026
• Top Chinese Payment Methods You Should Know
• FAQs About Chinese Currency and Payments
• Plan Your China Tour with Us

What Is the Chinese Currency Called?

Renminbi vs. Yuan: What’s the Difference?

The official Chinese currency is Renminbi or sometimes called the Chinese Yuan. The basic unit of Renminbi is Yuan. It is issued by the People’s Bank of China and used across the mainland. It is important to note that Hong Kong and Macau have their own currency. When you travel to China, you will often hear the Yuan being called “Kuai” by locals.

Chinese Currency Symbol and Units Explained

The official symbol for Chinese currency is “¥.” You will also see it abbreviated RMB or CNY. The most basic unit of Chinese money is Yuan, and 1 Yuan can be divided into 10 Jiao. The Jiao is often called “Mao.”

Banknotes & Coins

Currently, coins in Chinese currency include 1 Jiao, 5 Jiao, and 1 Yuan. You can easily tell them apart by their size, material (color), and engravings. Banknotes come in 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, and 100 Yuan. They can be distinguished by color.

Generally, you shouldn’t have to worry about counterfeits while paying with cash in China, but if you’d like to be cautious of them, you can look for the watermark of the People’s Bank of China on the front of the note or the metallic holographic strip.

Chinese Currency Exchange Basics

Current Exchange Rates: CNY to USD, EUR, GBP, INR, AUD, etc.

Here is a list of the current exchange rates between the Chinese currency and other foreign currencies. Please note that the rates may fluctuate, and the list below is made with real-time rates in August 2025.

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Where and How to Exchange Foreign Currency in China

It is recommended that you exchange some money before your China tour as you won’t be charged a transaction or service fee. It’ll also make sure that you have money ready-to-use as soon as you arrive.

But if you need to exchange foreign currency into Yuan in China, your options are the airport, banks, ATMs, and some star-rated hotels. Using an ATM is the most convenient way to exchange common foreign currencies like the USD, Euro, and the Pound Sterling. The machines have services in English and will allow you to complete the exchange quickly. Just make sure your bank is supported by the ATM machine.

If you have a large amount of money or cash to exchange into Chinese currency, you should go to a major bank such as Bank of China, Industrial and Commercial Bank of China, and Agricultural Bank of China. Please note that you’ll be charged a service fee by the bank. It’s best to exchange your money in a major Chinese city. Banks and ATMs there are more likely to provide the service you need.

Other than these two options, you can also exchange your money at the airport, although the exchange rates there will be less favorable. The service is also available at some star-rated or high-end hotels.

Can I Use Foreign Currency in China?

No, Chinese Yuan is the only currency. However, there are a number of ways to pay in China as a foreigner that are easy and convenient.

How to Pay in China as a Tourist in 2026

Payment methods in China have gone through dramatic changes in the past decade or two. The most prevalent way of paying right now is electronic payment. Paying with cash or cards has become a lot less common. Keep on reading to learn about how to pay in China as a tourist.

Mobile Electronic Payments: Essential Information for Travelers

You can use mobile payments for almost everything in China, from flights and accommodations to attractions and restaurants. It is the most common China payment method. You can do so through a number of apps such as WeChat Pay or Alipay. Link your bank card to the app, and when you need to pay for something, simply scan the vendor’s QR code or present your payment code on the app.

The only drawback is that you must make sure you have access to your device and network. Some very rural areas may not accept digital payments. Also, please note that Apple Pay can not be used in China. Make sure you notify your bank of your travel plans before your trip.

Cash

Despite becoming less common, cash will still be accepted in all scenarios on your trip. It is probably the most straightforward payment solution in China for visitors. Plus, it is best to carry some with you when you travel to remote areas or just in case of emergencies.

Bank Cards

You can pay with cards for almost all bookings, including flights, hotels, major attractions in China, as well as at malls and restaurants. However, most stalls, eateries, and small vendors will not accept cards due to the widespread use of electronic payments. If you’d like to pay with cards on your China trip, your best chance is to bring a Mastercard, visa, or UnionPay card. Make sure you notify your bank before visiting China.

Top Chinese Payment Methods You Should Know

Alipay – China’s Leading Digital Wallet

Alipay is a multi-purpose payment platform that can be used for almost all daily services like making payments, transportation, food delivery, and online shopping. You simply need to register an account with your phone number or email, verify your identity, and link your bank card. You’ll be able to use it to pay for almost anything you need in China.

WeChat Pay – More Than Messaging

WeChat is best known as a messaging and social media app, but it is also one of the most prevalent payment methods in China. Its function in life and setups are similar to Alipay. It is recommended that you register with either one of the two to ensure the best China tour experience. You can make payments quickly and easily with less communication issues.

UnionPay – China’s Bank Card System

UnionPay is a major bank card service corporation in the mainland of China. It has its own payment platform that you can also download and use in China, although it is not as prevalent as the two apps above.

FAQs About Chinese Currency and Payments

Can I use Apple Pay or Google Pay in China?

No, Apply Pay and Google Pay are not accepted in China.

Can I use PayPal in China?

No, PayPal is not a valid payment method in China, but WeChat Pay and Alipay both allow payments and transfers.

Do I need a Chinese bank account for mobile payments?

No, you can link most bank cards that are MasterCard, Visa, or UnionPay with mobile payment apps.

How much cash should I bring?

If you’re using a mobile payment service, then there’s no need to bring too much cash with you. Perhaps a couple hundred Yuan in case of emergencies. If cash and cards are to be your primary methods of payment in China, you should consider bringing at least CNY 200 per person per day.

Can I tip in US Dollars?

Tipping is generally not customary in China. However, it may be appreciated in tourism industries that cater to international travelers. For example, hotels, tour guides, and hired drivers may accept tipping in US Dollars. But if you would like to leave a tip on other occasions, it’s best if you tip in the Chinese currency.

Should I exchange money before I get to China?

It is recommended that you exchange for some Chinese money before getting there. You may need it for payments at the airport, hotel, or transportation. Exchanging money in your home country will also be easier and cost less in service fees.

What if I have leftover RMB when I leave China?

If you have a decent amount of Yuan left at the end of your trip, you can totally bring it back home with you to exchange back into your own currency. If the amount left is not worth the trouble, you may use it to purchase some small items like souvenirs or snacks. You can also leave a tip for your tour guide or driver.

How to make payments to China Xian Tour?

For booking a China tour with us, we currently accept four payment methods.

• PayPal: We will send you a PayPal invoice that you can pay whether you have a PayPal account or not. There will be a transfer fee charged by PayPal.
• Bank Transfer / Wire Transfer: Bank transfer is the best option for making a large amount in payment. You should be aware of the processing time for the money to be transferred, and you may have to pay a transaction fee to your bank.
• WeChat Pay / Alipay / UnionPay: If you have already or plan to set up mobile payment apps when you travel to China, you can use them to pay as well.
• Western Union Bank Transfer: We also accept transfers through Western Union Bank. Just provide the transfer information after you make it to help us confirm your payment.

Plan Your China Tour with Us

Plan your China tour with us now. We can help you with all your questions about Chinese currency. Tailor-make your itinerary whether it be a nature adventure, history tour, or family trip. And our knowledgeable guide will accompany you on your journey along with private transfer services.